What Causes a Car to Start and Then Stall After a Few Seconds?

[LaRicardo]

There are four main reasons why a car starts and then stalls shortly after: 1. Excessive carbon buildup leading to stalling: Carbon deposits typically accumulate in the throttle body, spark plugs, cylinders, fuel lines, and intake tracts. These are a tar-like substance formed when fuel burns at high temperatures. Physical cleaning methods are often ineffective, requiring specialized chemical cleaners for removal. 2. Poor fuel quality and clogged fuel injectors: Using low-quality fuel not only increases carbon buildup but can also clog fuel injectors, impairing atomization. Additionally, poor fuel directly affects combustion efficiency, increasing fuel consumption. Incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide, which can accumulate inside the vehicle and potentially cause fatal poisoning. 3. Spark plug carbon buildup and insufficient ignition voltage: Carbon deposits on spark plugs can be removed through both physical and chemical methods. Insufficient ignition voltage can be addressed by replacing the spark plugs. 4. Severely depleted battery: If the battery is significantly drained, it may make the engine difficult or impossible to start. Generally, a car battery has a lifespan of about four years.